Comar Comet 800 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Comet 800 are defined by its generous sail area-to-displacement ratio and its Finot-designed hull, which prioritizes performance in light to moderate airs. With a total sail area of approximately 33 square meters against a displacement of roughly 2,200 kilograms, the boat is surprisingly spirited. According to technical archives from Groupe Finot, the design was specifically optimized to maintain speed when sailing upwind, aided by a ballast ratio of nearly 38%, which provides significant stiffness for a vessel of this size.

On the water, the Comet 800 is known for its balanced helm and ability to track well, even when pressed. While it lacks the extreme beam of modern wide-stern cruisers, its hull shape allows it to plane slightly in heavy following seas, a trait inherited from Finot’s racing designs. Owners frequently note that the boat feels "bigger" than its 25 feet, handling chop with more grace than contemporary light-displacement competitors. However, the fractional rig (on some versions) or the more common masthead rig requires proactive reefing once the wind exceeds 18 knots to maintain a comfortable heel angle.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under eight meters, the interior of the Comet 800 is remarkably functional, utilizing a traditional layout that maximizes the 2.65-meter beam. The cabin typically features a V-berth forward, a central saloon with two facing settees that double as berths, and a small galley located to the port of the companionway. A key design triumph of the Comet 800 is its headroom, which approaches 1.75 meters in the main saloon—an impressive feat for an 8-meter boat of this vintage.

Materially, the interior is finished with molded GRP liners complemented by mahogany or teak veneers. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Comet 770, which felt more like a daysailer, the 800 was built for short-term coastal cruising, including a dedicated (though compact) marine head located between the saloon and the forward cabin. Variations of the model were primarily limited to rigging options and engine choices, with many units originally fitted with Farymann or Bukh diesel engines. A larger sibling built on a similar design philosophy, the Comet 850, offered more substantial aft-cabin accommodations, whereas the 800 remains a classic "open-plan" layout.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Comar Comet 800 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of a design that is now over forty years old. While the hulls were solidly built, several "gotchas" are common to the era and the specific construction methods used by Sipla:

• Osmosis: Like many Mediterranean builds from the late 70s, the Comet 800 is susceptible to osmotic blistering. A thorough hull survey is essential, particularly if the boat has spent its life in warmer waters.
• Deck Core Saturation: The deck is a sandwich construction. Areas around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step should be checked with a moisture meter or by performing a "tap test" to identify delamination or soft spots caused by water ingress.
• Original Engines: Many units still house their original single-cylinder diesel engines. These units often suffer from parts scarcity and vibration-induced wear on the engine mounts and the shaft seal.
• Rudder Play: The spade rudder assembly can develop play in the bushings over time. Inspect the rudder stock for signs of corrosion or movement within the tube, which can lead to heavy steering.

Community & Resources

The Comar legacy is well-supported by a dedicated community, primarily based in Italy. The "Comet" brand has a long-standing reputation, and technical support can often be found through the Italian Comar Owners groups and various Mediterranean sailing forums where the 800 remains a popular entry-level cruiser. Technical drawings and original specifications are still preserved in the archives of the designer, Jean-Marie Finot.

The Verdict

The Comar Comet 800 remains a highly relevant choice for sailors seeking an affordable, performance-oriented classic. It balances Italian style with French naval architecture, offering a sailing experience that is far more rewarding than the "caravan-style" cruisers of the same era.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• Impressive interior headroom and volume for a 25-foot boat.
• Robust ballast ratio provides a secure, stiff feel in a breeze.
• Timeless design aesthetics from a world-class naval architect.

Cons:

• Age-related issues such as osmosis and deck saturation are common.
• Original engines are often underpowered and nearing the end of their service life.
• Compact head and galley may feel cramped for extended cruises with more than two people.